Starting a family is a dream for many. If you’re part of a same-sex couple, in vitro fertilization (IVF) with surrogacy might be the key to making that dream a reality. For male couples, a surrogate is necessary to carry the pregnancy. However, lesbian couples may also consider surrogacy if carrying a pregnancy isn’t an option. This path can bring you one step closer to the joy of parenthood. If you want to begin this life-changing journey, don’t hesitate to reach out for personalized guidance from our surrogacy specialists. Just fill out our form or call 1-800-875-BABY to get in touch. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about surrogacy and IVF for same-sex couples, guiding you through each step of the process.
How Does IVF Work for Gay Couples?
The IVF and surrogacy processes can vary depending on whether you’re in a gay or lesbian relationship. Here’s what you can expect:
IVF for Gay Men As a gay couple, your IVF journey starts with finding an egg donor. An embryologist will fertilize the donor eggs with your or your partner’s sperm. After the embryo is created, you’ll need to find a surrogate to carry the pregnancy. This surrogate will nurture your baby until birth, making her a crucial part of your journey to parenthood.
IVF for Lesbian Couples One popular IVF option for same-sex couples is reciprocal IVF. In this process, one woman provides the eggs, which are then fertilized through IVF, and the other woman carries the pregnancy. This allows you and your partner to have a direct connection to your child. If you cannot carry the pregnancy, you can also consider using a gestational surrogate.
As a gay couple, your IVF journey starts with finding an egg donor. An embryologist will fertilize the donor eggs with your or your partner’s sperm. After the embryo is created, you’ll need to find a surrogate to carry the pregnancy. This surrogate will nurture your baby until birth, making her a crucial part of your journey to parenthood.
One popular IVF option for same-sex couples is reciprocal IVF. In this process, one woman provides the eggs, which are then fertilized through IVF, and the other woman carries the pregnancy. This allows you and your partner to have a direct connection to your child. If you cannot carry the pregnancy, you can also consider using a gestational surrogate.
IVF Treatment for Same-Sex Couples [Step-by-Step Process]
Surrogacy and IVF for same-sex couples is a multi-step journey that requires careful planning and collaboration. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what you can expect:
The first step in your IVF journey involves deciding which partner will provide the genetic material (egg or sperm) and who will carry the pregnancy. This decision is deeply personal and may depend on factors like health, fertility and your individual desires.Step 1: Decide who will provide their egg or sperm and who will carry the pregnancy.
Step 2: Choose an egg or sperm donor.
If you need to use a donor, the next step is selecting the right egg or sperm donor. This involves choosing someone whose genetic traits align with your vision for your family.
Once the donor is chosen, the egg is fertilized with sperm in a laboratory to create an embryo. This crucial step sets the stage for the pregnancy that will follow.Step 3: Create the embryo through IVF.
Step 4: Find a surrogate.
Working with an agency can streamline the process of finding a surrogate. Our team can match you with a screened surrogate in as little as one to six months. This is a vital step, as your surrogate will be carrying your child throughout the pregnancy.
The embryo is carefully transferred to the uterus of the surrogate or the partner who will carry the pregnancy. You, your partner or your surrogate may experience post-transfer and early pregnancy symptoms in the following weeks.Step 5: Transfer the embryo to the surrogate or person who plans to carry.
Step 6: Test for pregnancy after the two-week waiting period.
After the embryo transfer, there’s a two-week waiting period before testing for pregnancy. This time can be filled with anticipation, as you await the confirmation of your baby’s impending arrival.
How Much Does IVF Cost for Gay Couples? [Surrogacy Expenses]
Both the IVF and surrogacy processes come with significant financial considerations. It’s important to be prepared for the costs involved as you embark on this journey to parenthood.
A single IVF cycle can range from $15,000 to $30,000. This cost typically includes ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, and embryo transfer. Here’s a breakdown of the key expenses:
Base process fee Fertility assessment Semen analysis Injectable medications Embryo freezing Embryo storage Genetic testing And more
Surrogacy, on the other hand, can cost between $169,900 to $179,000 or more. This includes:
Marketing to find surrogates Surrogate screening Parent protection fee Matching fee Surrogate compensation Legal fees Travel expenses for the surrogate Insurance premiums (if needed) Prenatal expenses And more
Financing Surrogacy and IVF Costs for Gay Couples
There are various ways to finance surrogacy and IVF for gay couples. Understanding your financial options can help alleviate some of the stress associated with these expenses.
Some potential financing options include:
Grants Loans Fundraising Insurance Employer benefits Personal savings And more
At American Surrogacy, we strive to make the surrogacy process more affordable through various services, such as installment payment plans, an unlimited matching fee and refundable agency fees if gestational surrogacy doesn’t work out. We also offer low-cost programs if you’ve already found a carrier.
Many other gay and lesbian couples have walked this path before. For example, Michael and Viet, a gay couple, share their story of matching with their surrogate, Alessandra, after waiting just a few weeks. “We instantly clicked, and we felt really comfortable,” Viet said. “She always kept us updated with news that something happened. It was a really wonderful match. I will wish all intended parents to have such a wonderful match like that.” Michael and Viet couldn’t imagine their surrogacy journey without Alessandra. “It’s the love that she imbued in our son from day one as he was growing inside of her that we know makes him the magnificent person he is today,” Michael said. “There just aren’t words to express our gratitude to her. There just is nothing else in this world that matters as much as my son does to me. I have Alessandra to thank for that.”What Is Surrogacy and IVF for LGBTQ Couples Like?
Moving Forward With Surrogacy and IVF for Gay Couples
IVF and surrogacy can bring you closer to realizing your dream of parenthood. These processes can be complex, but with the right support and resources, you can successfully navigate each step along the way.
If you’re ready to take the next step, fill out our contact form or call 1-800-875-BABY to get in touch with a surrogacy specialist today. We’re ready to help you become a parent.